Senior Contract Artist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Senior Contracts Analyst manages and administers the full contract life cycle, from solicitation through contract close-out. Responsibilities include solicitation review, proposal preparation and submission, negotiation with government customers, and post-award administration. The Senior Contracts Analyst will interface directly with the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) and other customers to achieve business objectives and advance customer satisfaction.

This position is based at our Corporate Headquarters in Wood Dale, IL, with a planned relocation to the Merchandise Mart (Chicago) in early 2027.

What you need to be successful in the role:

• Independently analyze and respond to solicitations and contract awards for products issued through DLA's Internet Bid Board System (DIBBS) and other procurement platforms
• Lead negotiation on price/cost analysis, commercial item determinations, and contract exceptions with the Government customer.
• Respond to and independently resolve customer issues and concerns.
• Manage workflow and contracts within AAR's ERP system (IFS).
• Prepare and administer routine correspondence, negotiation memoranda, and contract documentation to ensure timely and coordinated submission.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with internal teams and external customers.
• Identify, communicate, and escalate risks and opportunities to business leadership.
• Ensure compliance with federal regulations and internal company standards.
• Maintain organized contract records and files documenting contract performance and compliance.
• Serve as a focal point for communication with cross-functional teams.
• Identify and implement opportunities for process improvement.
• Provide training and guidance to members of the contracts team and broader business division.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

What you need to be successful in this role: 

• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.S.) from a four-year college or university, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 3-5 years of experience in federal contract administration (experience as a Prime Contractor or Contracting Officer preferred).
• Advanced knowledge of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), and other regulations relevant to federal contracting.
• Demonstrated experience managing T, U, Q, and R type solicitations and contracts.
• Strong understanding of FAR Part 15 concepts and federal contracting principles.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Experience managing contracts within an ERP system (IFS experience a plus).
• Proven experience leading negotiations on Commercial Item Determinations, pricing/cost analysis, and compliance with federal regulations.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to interface effectively with all levels of employees and management.
• Consistent experience in proposal preparation, contract review, and negotiation

The rewards of your career at AAR go far beyond just your salary: 

• Competitive salary and bonus package
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Generous paid time off program

• Professional development and career advancement opportunities

Physical Demands/Work Environment:
The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
    While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be regularly required to sit, stand, bend, reach and move about the facility.
    The environmental characteristic for this position is an office setting.
    Candidates should be able to adapt to a traditional business environment.
AAR provides accommodation in accordance with applicable laws through all stages of the hiring process. If you require accommodation for any part of the application and/or hiring process, please advise Human Resources.

Compensation:
The anticipated salary range for this position is $75,000 to $90,000 annually. This range reflects the base salary for candidates who meet the requirements of the role, including experience, education, and location. [In addition to base pay, this role is eligible for a bonus.] AAR offers a competitive benefits package, including medical/dental/vision/life/and AD&D insurance, 401(k) savings plan with employer match, paid time off and holiday pay, as well as opportunities for professional development and growth.

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